I’ll never forget the drive over to Anglesey – we piled into the car from Cheshire, kids buzzing in the back with crisps and iPads, me navigating via a dodgy phone signal. About halfway, disaster struck: a rogue seagull dive-bombed our windscreen, leaving a smeary mess that had us all in stitches. “Nature’s welcome committee!” my husband laughed, while I frantically wiped it with a baby wipe. By the time we hit the A55, hearts were light, and the anticipation built – Treaddur Bay was calling, with its promise of sandy beaches and that proper Welsh sea air.

Pulling up to our ground-floor apartment in the heart of Treaddur Bay, we were gobsmacked. Moments from the beach, with cracking views of Holyhead Mountain right from the private patio – it was love at first sight. This contemporary spot screamed relaxed family vibes: perfect for us lot, a couple with two under-tens. Inside, the fully equipped kitchen/diner was a godsend for knocking up fish fingers or a cheeky pasta, and the sitting room? Bliss. That massive 55” Smart TV with Blu-Ray and Sony speaker sorted movie nights – we binged Finding Nemo while the rain pattered outside, feeling like we’d struck gold.

First morning, we wandered straight to the beach, just a hop away. Treaddur’s waters are legendary for snorkelling, all crystal clear and teeming with little fish – the kids donned masks and flipped out over a crab or two. I joined in, splashing about like a daft seal, while my other half built epic sandcastles that inevitably collapsed in a heap of giggles. Lunch was simple pleasures: pasties from the local shop, devoured on the patio with mountain views that made you go “wow” every time.

Afternoons were cottage life chaos at its best. We pottered to Porth Dafarch, a stone’s throw along the coast, for pebble-skipping contests and ice creams that dripped faster than the kids could lick. Back home, I’d rustle up tea in the kitchen – nothing fancy, just sausage and mash – while the little ones “helped” by making a flour explosion on the floor. Cue me on my knees scrubbing, chuckling at the madness. One evening, we fired up the patio for a barbecue, watching the sun dip behind the mountain, seals barking in the distance. Pure magic.

There was a quiet moment of self-reflection one foggy morn, sat with coffee gazing out. Holidays like this remind me to slow down – amid the sandy towels and sticky fingers, it’s these unhurried days that recharge the soul. No grand plans, just family, sea, and a bit of lovely disorder. Anglesey nailed it; we’re already plotting a return. If you’re after that chilled family break, this is your spot.